Tattoo Removal

The Picosure Laser - the choice for tattoo removal... PicoSure is the world’s first picosecond laser for the effective removal of tattoos. PicoSure erases unwanted ink more effectively than ever before, successfully removing difficult ink colors as well as previously treated tattoos. Fewer treatments, faster recovery time, and greater results are now achievable with PicoSure.

Decorative tattoos have a history dating back at least 5000 years. The desire to remove them has probably existed for just as long. Early attempts to remove tattoos have had less than desirable results. The use of dermabrasion, salt abrasion and Argon or CO2 lasers have left behind scars in place of the tattoo.

The advent of the Picosure laser has permitted the removal of most tattoo inks with a very low risk of scarring. The Picosure laser is the laser of choice in this class of laser. It can significantly lighten or remove a wide variety of tattoo inks. Avante provides the answers to your questions about Picosure Laser Tattoo removal in Houston and The Woodlands, Texas.

It removes tattoo ink with the energy of light. A laser is a device which is designed to produce one or more specific wavelengths of light. Tattoo ink is removed by using this specific wavelength of light which passes into the skin, but is absorbed by the ink. The rapid absorption of light energy causes the tattoo ink to break into tiny particles which can then be removed by the body’s natural filtering systems. The Picosure Laser provides maximum tattoo removal while leaving the surrounding skin unharmed.

The number of laser treatments needed for tattoo removal is dependent on a number of variables such as ink type, size of the tattoo, location on the body, type of laser used, lifestyle habits, etc. During your consultation, a practitioner will evaluate your tattoo and recommend a realistic treatment regime to help you achieve the best results.

How often will I need treatments?

While it typically takes 4-8 weeks for the body to absorb the ink particles, every patient and tattoo responds differently. Following the recommended post treatment protocol will likely improve the results and reduce the chance of small adverse events.

Does the laser remove colored tattoos?

Dark (blue, black) and red inks will resolve the best. Oranges and purples usually fade as well. Green and yellow inks, previously the most difficult colors to remove, are well-handled by the Picosure Laser, however, additional treatments may be required to produce significant fading. Will the tattoo completely disappear? In many cases, yes. Greater than 95% fading of the tattoo may be accomplished. However, it is important to know that there are many types of tattoo inks in use worldwide today which are not regulated by the FDA. Not knowing which tattoo ink was used, or how deeply it was applied, makes it impossible for the physician to predict the degree of removal on any given tattoo.

Is the process painful?

The Picosure Laser emits light in very short pulses. The impact of the energy from the powerful pulse of light is similar to the snap of a small rubber band on the skin. The majority of patients do not require anesthesia, depending on the size and location of the tattoo. Anesthesia creams are available if needed.

What type of post-treatment care is necessary?

An antibacterial ointment and a dressing will be applied to the area immediately after treatment. Occasionally, there will be pinpoint bleeding associated with the treatment. The treated area should be kept clean. Follow your physician’s instructions exactly as to what to do during the days following the procedure. A shower can be taken the next day, although the treated area should never be scrubbed. If a scab forms it is vital that you do not pick it or scratch it.

How will my skin look after the laser treatment?

The ideal clinical endpoint for the tattoo treatment is an immediate slight whitening or “frosting” of the skin, however that will subside immediately after the treatment is complete. Other observable effects include mild swelling and redness. Your practitioner will direct you on how best to keep the area moist.

My tattoo was treated with a laser in the past and didn’t clear, why would I try again now?

Until the launch of PicoSure, Q-Switched lasers had been considered the gold standard for removing tattoos. Q-Switched laser treatments use thermal energy to heat up and break apart the ink particles. Now with PicoSure, ultra-short pulses hit the ink particle with a pressure so great, the ink shatters into tiny dust-like particles. Because the particles are so small, they are more readily absorbed and eliminated by the body. PicoSure has been proven success in treating even dark, stubborn blue and green inks, as well as previously-treated, stubborn tattoos that were not successfully cleared in the past.

How do I get started?

Our physician will be happy to discuss this procedure with you. Please feel free to make an appointment for a consultation to discuss your specific needs by calling 281-419-0080.